Thelen Auto Group Service Center

Let the Thelen Auto Group Service Your Vehicle Air Filters

With spring weather comes the return of pollen and other airborne debris that can make driving around Central Michigan an uncomfortable experience if you haven’t had the air filters in your vehicle replaced recently. These elements can also impact the performance and efficiency of your powertrain and your HVAC system by clogging up airflow and making it more difficult for these parts of your vehicle to function properly. As such, the Thelen Auto Group in Bay City, MI, is here to explain why having both your cabin and engine air filters replaced this spring will make cruising around the Great Lakes Bay Region a much more enjoyable experience for everyone in the family. By choosing one of our convenient Service Centers to handle the work for you, you can get back on the road with confidence that your vehicle is equipped with filters made for your make and model. 

Reasons to Change Your Air Filters This Spring in Michigan

The Cabin Air Filter Keeps the HVAC System Functioning Efficiently –

When the cabin air filter in your vehicle hasn’t been replaced in a while, the clogged airflow makes it more difficult for its HVAC system to function properly. As such, more energy has to be devoted to getting the same quality circulation throughout the vehicle. This directly impacts your vehicle’s efficiency in the long term, as well as becoming noticeable inside the cabin with less fresh air quality. Therefore, investing in a new air filter for your cabin is a worthwhile service. 

Peak Performance & Efficiency Achieved with a Fresh Engine Air Filter –

You and your family aren’t the only reason to have new air filters put into your vehicle. When you have an old and clogged engine air filter equipped, the airflow going into your engine becomes stymied as well. Poor air circulation through your engine results in a performance reduction and reduced efficiency as your engine has to work harder to achieve similar results as if it had a fresh air filter fitted. Spring is the perfect time to have this service done as you can get ahead of all the dust, dirt, and other elements that can start hampering your vehicle’s long-term performance. 

Pre-Owned 2016 Honda HR-V LX

Accessible Pre-Owned Vehicles Under $15,000 for Rebuilding Credit Available in Mid-Michigan

The road to re-establishing a confident credit score can be a challenge if you’ve been struggling in recent years. However, the Thelen Auto Group in Bay City, MI, wants you to know that you can find a quality vehicle that can easily fit into your budget and help you start building your credit score. You can purchase a vehicle that costs less than $15,000 when you visit any of our N. Euclid Ave. locations. Our team is also more than happy to work with you to get a payment plan worked out so that you can focus on driving a functional vehicle while also making positive progress on your credit score for the future. 

Examples of Vehicles Currently Available Under $15,000

2016 Honda HR-V LX

This compact SUV is equipped with plenty of features to accentuate your time in the vehicle, as well as the performance you can count on for energetic cruising throughout mid-Michigan. A 1.8L inline-four engine resides under the hood and delivers a reliable 141 horsepower. You also get the excellence of an AWD platform for all-season confidence throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. The interior is equipped with welcome modern features such as Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and Streaming Audio for quality convenience and entertainment diversity. 

2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk

Are you more of an adventurer and want a quality vehicle that caters to your free-spirited nature? This 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is an SUV that meets your needs. Powered by a dynamic 3.2L V6 engine and riding on a reliable 4×4 platform for impeccable handling precision throughout the year, you’ll always have an enjoyable experience behind the wheel wherever you are. You also get a quality interior full of coveted amenities such as heated front seating, HD Radio capability, and GPS navigation capability. 

2012 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 2.5

If you prefer the driving style of a sedan, this 2012 VW Jetta SEL is a great choice for an accessible everyday cruiser. Taking command of the vibrant 2.5L five-cylinder engine is an enjoyable experience. You are also greeted by a cabin full of features that elevate any ride. These range from heated front seating and integrated navigation system to satellite radio capability already built-in for diverse convenience and entertainment potential. 

Pre-Owned 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness

Prepare for Summer Vacation in a Quality Pre-Owned SUV Today

The end of the school year will be here before you know it, and along with it the promise of gorgeous summer days just ready for vacationing. What better way to experience your next summer vacation in 2024 than in a modern SUV full of comfort and entertaining features to make the ride as enjoyable as the destination? When you visit any of the Thelen Auto Group dealerships on N. Euclid Ave in Bay City, you will find a great selection of gently used SUVs that are equipped with everything that you need to make your next adventure a memorable one. By choosing Thelen as your Central Michigan dealer for pre-owned vehicles, you get to experience the same quality customer service that local drivers have come to trust from their own shopping needs. 

Examples of Quality Pre-Owned SUVs We Have Available in Bay City

2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness – 

This very recent model year SUV is perfectly equipped for the most adventurous spirits in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Powered by a turbocharged 2.4L SUBARU BOXER engine and riding on the superior Symmetrical AWD platform, every trip you take in this pre-owned Subaru SUV promises to be special. Step inside the beautiful Autumn Green vehicle and you’re greeted by a cabin full of premium features. Heated functionality in the front seating and the steering wheel along with a dynamic climate control system that can be activated with your voice highlight the all-season versatility of the Subaru. Add on the STARLINK system and its inclusion of smartphone connection applications and SiriusXM radio capability, and you’ve got a superior vacationing SUV. 

2021 Audi Q3 Premium S Line

Want even more luxurious tones in your daily or vacation cruiser? This stunning Chronos Gray 2021 Audi Q3 Premium S Line is built to appeal to your more upscale tastes. You get to take command of a vibrant turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine for entertaining driving around town or the highway, while the quattro AWD platform gives you elite all-season handling precision throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. Inside, the high-quality leather seat upholstery gives the cabin a refined appearance. Heated functionality in the front seats, as well as an excellent dual-zone climate control system, elevates the comfort everyone in the vehicle experiences. Through the MMI infotainment system, you have access to features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth for compatible smartphones. 

2019 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium – 

A modern Volkswagen features an ideal blend of everyday performance and interior quality, with the Tourmaline Blue 2019 VW Atlas SEL Premium that we have available being a shining example of that. Powered by a 276-hp 3.6L V6 engine under the hood and riding on the 4Motion AWD platform, you always have more than enough driving capability to confidently tackle whatever you’re facing. Inside, you have access to coveted amenities such as a heated steering wheel and integrated navigation inside the spacious three-row family cruiser. 

Thelen Auto Group Service Center

Check Odd Engine Noises at Thelen Auto Group Service Center

Your favorite family cruiser can potentially have things develop over time that require immediate attention for repair. Your engine is one of the hardest working components of your vehicle, and you have to be aware of when new and different noises start to emanate from under the hood. Ranging from minor issues that can be quickly addressed to more significant ones, the Thelen Auto Group of Bay City in mid-Michigan highly recommends not wasting any time scheduling an appointment with one of our Service Center locations when you hear a change in your engine. Our team is eager to diagnose the issue and provide an explanation and / or repair quote, if needed. 

Engine Sounds & What They Could Mean

High-Pitched Whining or Squealing – 

When the timing belts in your vehicle get loose or start to become considerably worn out, your vehicle may start creating a noticeable high-pitched squeal. These belts are vital to keeping areas such as your water pumps and the alternator functioning properly and keeping your vehicle on the road. Whether they need to be tightened or replaced, our Service Center teams are ready to work on them to get everything functioning properly. 

Distinct Tapping or Clicking –

When the oil in your vehicle starts getting considerably low, your engine will struggle to maintain the same lubrication for peak function. This can also increase the chances of long-term damage being done to your engine. Your vehicle may alert you to low oil levels before this becomes an issue, but we recommend not waiting to check your vehicle’s oil levels if you start hearing this sound. Make sure to get your vehicle in for a proper service at one of our Bay City locations promptly.

Loud Knocking –

While somewhat similar to the tapping sound, this more robust and abrupt sound usually signals that there is an issue with the fuel-to-air mixture flowing through the engine. As a result, the sound you are hearing is called a “detonation knock”. If you are hearing this, you need to have our team do a thorough evaluation of your vehicle’s fuel system to make sure there isn’t something noticeable making this issue consistent. Leaving it unchecked can greatly increase the chances of a long-term engine issue occurring. 

Thelen Auto Group

The Thelen Shopping Difference Makes Us a Go-To Choice in Central Michigan

We know that there are plenty of places in the Great Lakes Bay Region to shop for pre-owned vehicles. However, the family of Thelen Auto Group dealerships in Bay City, MI, have several advantages that help set us apart from our competition. Ranging from the purchase of a vehicle to the dedicated service that we provide on a wide variety of brands that we sell, we make the entire ownership experience a trustworthy one when you choose Thelen. Stop by one of our conveniently located dealerships located on N. Euclid Ave today to discover why so many local Central Michigan residents trust us with their pre-owned vehicle shopping. 

What is the Thelen Auto Group Advantage for Pre-Owned Vehicles?

We Sell Plenty of Quality Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles – 

Since our family of dealerships sells ten different brands in our New Vehicle inventory, we are proud to offer the opportunity to sell pre-owned vehicles that meet the strict criteria from those respective companies for their Certified Pre-Owned designations. From our extensive selection of brands such as Volkswagen. Subaru and Audi, you have the opportunity to purchase vehicles that exceed the expectations you have for a conventional pre-owned model. 

We Confidently Service Those Brands That We Sell at Our Service Centers –

The ownership experience when you choose a Thelen Auto Group location doesn’t stop after you drive your quality vehicle away from our dealership. We make sure that you always have a trustworthy Service Center that is equipped with the resources required to confidently maintain or repair your vehicle conveniently in the Central Michigan region. For example, if you purchase a pre-owned Mazda from our Mazda location, the corresponding Service Center will provide your vehicle with quality OEM Mazda parts and other brand-recommended components to achieve peak longevity and performance retention after every service! 

Certified Pre-Owned 2023 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition

Experience the Certified Pre-Owned Advantage at the Thelen Auto Group

Purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned model from any of the Thelen Auto Group dealerships in Bay City, MI is a great decision. Not only can you be confident that the vehicle in question has met strict criteria for quality and wear set by each brand, but our CPO models have been thoroughly evaluated by our expert Service Center technicians. This is why we highly recommend considering a CPO vehicle if you are looking to find a quality vehicle that you’ll love taking around the Great Lakes Bay Region throughout the year. 

Examples of Certified Pre-Owned Models Available in Mid-Michigan

2023 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition – 

This recent model year Subaru available at Thelen Subaru is a dynamic and versatile all-season SUV option for the Central Michigan region. Powered by the SUBARU BOXER engine and riding on the reliable Symmetrical AWD platform, every trip you take in the Ascent is going to be vibrant and consistent. Inside, the family cruiser comes equipped with superb amenities such as integrated navigation, heated functionality in the front-row seating, and even a heated steering wheel for a diverse range of options. 

2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE

Do you prefer the style and sportiness of a hatchback? Visit Thelen VW and ask to see the CPO 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI we have available at our mid-Michigan dealership. A peppy turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine allows you to appreciate having satisfying surges of speed with every press of the gas pedal. Inside the hatchback, there are numerous premium amenities to enjoy. Through the MIB3 infotainment system, you have access to top applications such as integrated navigation and SiriusXM radio capability. 

2021 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

For easily accessible luxury and exceptional all-around performance, we recommend visiting Thelen Mazda and seeing this gorgeous 2021 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring for yourself. Equipped with a 2.5L SKYACTIV-G engine and boasting the versatility of the i-Activ AWD platform, this is a crossover SUV perfectly designed for the ever-changing road and weather conditions that Central Michigan presents us throughout the year. Add on a well-equipped interior with amenities such as heated front seating, Bluetooth functionality, and a dynamic 10-speaker sound system from Bose, and you have a family cruiser that is ready to help you make lasting memories across Central Michigan. 

Vehicle Test Drive

Test Drive Your Next Vehicle with Confidence with the Thelen Auto Group

A test drive session is the best way to learn everything you need to know about a prospective vehicle purchase. You get to feel how the powertrain responds to your driving style, as well as feel how the interior caters to your comfort and entertainment needs. At the Thelen Auto Group family of dealerships in Bay City, MI, we always encourage our customers to take a test drive of any vehicle they are looking to purchase. We also want to share with you our favorite tips to make the most of your test drive appointment. See why discerning Central Michigan drivers choose Thelen for their pre-owned vehicle shopping. 

Six Test Driving Tips to Elevate Your Experience

Research in Advance – 

Going into a test drive of a prospective vehicle unprepared is not an ideal way to fully experience the process. We recommend that if you know which vehicle you are scheduling a test drive for to fully view its online inventory page. This will provide you with details such as the powertrain, drivetrain, and any interior amenities that you might desire. 

Arrive Early to Your Appointment to Speak with Your Representative –

We understand that you might have preliminary questions about the vehicle you are looking to test drive before you step behind the wheel. If this is the case, we recommend that you arrive a few minutes ahead of your appointment time so that you can speak with the sales representative who will be assigned to your drive. Having as much time as possible to get your questions answered will help make your experience even more confident. 

Thoroughly Inspect the Exterior & Interior of the Vehicle –

While we make sure that every vehicle we sell is in as pristine condition as possible for you, it is recommended to take the time before you start your test drive to take a good look at the vehicle both inside and out. This way, you know exactly what you are purchasing if you decide to make the vehicle yours. This also helps you make sure we haven’t missed anything during our inspections of the vehicle. 

Bring Your Everyday Items to See How They Fit Inside the Vehicle –

You don’t want to purchase a quality pre-owned vehicle and discover that you can’t fit your child’s car seat or any other everyday items that you need to have with you. Whether it is a stroller, sporting equipment, or other items you regularly plan on having in the vehicle, bring them along to see if and how they fit. The fewer surprises you have, the more confident you’ll be that you’re purchasing the right option for your family. 

Drive How You Regularly Do During the Appointment –

To get the most accurate representation of how the vehicle you are test-driving will feel during your everyday travels across Central Michigan, we suggest doing everything that you would normally do with your current cruiser. This means accelerating, braking, and steering as you would. By doing so, you ensure you get the full extent of how the vehicle will operate for you when you start driving it around town or the highway.  Of course, always obey all traffic laws during your vehicle test drive.

Ask Questions During Your Test Drive –

While you are behind the wheel of your prospective vehicle during the appointment, you might have new questions about a certain feature in the vehicle such as the infotainment system or the climate control system. The representative accompanying you on your test drive will be happy to answer any additional questions you have while on the road. Our mission to keep you informed is why test driving with Thelen is a preferable choice in mid-Michigan. 

(Photo Credit: iStock)

Pre-Owned 2024 Subaru Legacy Touring XT

Prepare for Warmer Weather with a Pre-Owned Sporty Sedan Option

It won’t be long until spring arrives in mid-Michigan. As such, we know that you’ll love the experience of getting around the Great Lakes Bay Region this year with a quality pre-owned sedan from the Thelen Auto Group in Bay City, MI. We have a variety of models that are equipped with sporty powertrains and come loaded with quality interior content to make your travels around Michigan feel exciting. When you choose to shop with a Thelen Auto Group dealership on N. Euclid Ave. in Bay City as your pre-owned vehicle destination, you can trust that your needs are being met by our sales team members and their commitment to your satisfaction. 

Examples of Pre-Owned Sporty Sedans Available in Bay City, MI

2024 Subaru Legacy Touring XT – 

This recent model year sedan is incredibly versatile and entertaining to drive across the Great Lakes Bay Region even when the weather isn’t ideal. Thanks to the dynamic 2.4L SUBARU BOXER engine and the benefits of Symmetrical AWD, you’ll have the time of your life cruising around cities and highways in your Legacy. Inside, you’re also treated to a superior level of comfort and immersion. This is led by amenities such as fully climate-controlled front-row seating, integrated navigation, and satellite radio capability. 

2020 Honda Accord LX

Another entertaining sedan option, this 2020 Honda Accord LX is an accessible way to get yourself in a vehicle that you’ll love taking across mid-Michigan. A 1.5L inline-four engine combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission ensures smooth acceleration while maximizing every ounce of performance in the sedan. You’ll also have access to coveted amenities such as an excellent dual-zone automatic climate control system and connectivity to compatible smartphones through mediums such as Bluetooth. 

2021 Kia Forte GT-Line

Modern Kia vehicles are exciting options because they offer competitive performance and well-equipped interiors for an accessible price. This 2021 Kia Forte GT-Line is no exception. You get a peppy 2.0L inline-four engine to enjoy across cities and highways. Through the onboard infotainment system, compatible smartphones connect through mediums such as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto for convenience. Thanks to the harman/kardon Premium Sound System equipped in the Forte, every media outlet you use in the sedan has truly sensational audio quality. 

Thelen Auto Group Service Center

The Thelen Auto Group Can Confidently Service a Variety of Brands

What is the advantage of choosing one of the Thelen Auto Group family of dealerships on N. Euclid Ave in Bay City for your Central Michigan vehicle servicing needs? The expansive array of brands that we sell in our locations allows us to confidently provide proper service on those models. Between our knowledgeable technicians who have the expertise to work on their respective brands and the ability to stock quality OEM parts for all our various dealerships, you can’t go wrong making us your mid-Michigan destination for trustworthy maintenance and repair in 2024. Request an appointment time at the dealership that carries the brand your vehicle is made at by using our convenient Service Appointment Scheduling hub

The Thelen Auto Group Service Advantage

Technicians with Dedicated Brand Expertise – 

When you take your family cruiser to a conventional repair shop in mid-Michigan, you can’t guarantee that the individuals working on your vehicle have the knowledge to properly work on the intricate elements of it. With all the brand-specific technology systems their models are equipped with, you need that confidence that they are being catered to correctly. As such, if you have a vehicle from a brand such as Volkswagen, Dodge, or Audi, make the associated Thelen dealership that sells that brand your destination for trustworthy technicians who know how to work on your favorite vehicle. 

OEM Parts for All Brands That We Sell –

The advantage of OEM parts is insurmountable when compared to after-market ones. When you have the parts and other brand-recommended components that are designed for your vehicle installed, the performance difference is noticeable immediately. We encourage you to speak with our Service Center staff today to determine all the reasons you should consider having these quality parts in your next routine maintenance or repair appointment. 

Pre-Owned 2023 Subaru Outback Limited

Pre-Owned Limited Trims of Various SUVs Available in Bay City, MI

When a brand makes a Limited trim of their models, you can expect them to be loaded with all the premium amenities that you want from your modern family cruiser. At the Thelen Auto Group family of dealerships in Bay City, MI, we have a selection of pre-owned SUVs available that are their Limited trim levels. If you have been looking for a vehicle filled with plenty of high-end features to enjoy, these SUVs are the perfect fit for you. Stop by our various Central Michigan dealerships located on Euclid Ave. to discover which excellent SUV is right for your and your family’s needs!

Limited Trim Level SUVs Available at Our Dealerships

2020 Toyota Highlander Limited – 

Powered by a 3.5L V6 engine under the hood, this 2020 Toyota Highlander Limited is a fun-to-drive SUV. This is accompanied by an eight-speed automatic transmission and rides on a reliable AWD platform for all-season versatility. Inside, the steering wheel and the front seating have heated functionality for premium all-season comfort. Ventilation is also present in the front seating. Through the infotainment system, premium amenities include integrated navigation and satellite radio capability so that there is something for the whole family to enjoy. 

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited

Looking for a more adventurous SUV with a trusted pedigree for the off-roading lifestyle? The pre-owned 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited has everything for the adventurous mid-Michigan family. Propelled by a 3.6L V6 engine and equipped with an excellent 4×4 drivetrain, this SUV is designed to excel on the most rugged terrain that the Great Lakes Bay Region has to offer. You also have plenty to appreciate inside the vehicle. This includes heated functionality in every seat and steering wheel for winter driving excellence. Through the Uconnect 4 system, premium amenities such as SiriusXM radio capability and various smartphone connection applications are ideal for modern family needs.

2023 Subaru Outback Limited

This recent model year Subaru is equipped with all the performance and interior amenities you and your family will adore for your daily trips across mid-Michigan. The SUBARU BOXER engine generates substantial performance both around town and on the highway. Boasting the Symmetrical AWD platform that is a staple Subaru addition to the brand’s various vehicles, piloting this SUV throughout the year is a treat. Much like the Grand Cherokee, heated functionality is found in every seat and the steering wheel for winter cruising comfort. The STARLINK multimedia system is filled with applications such as satellite radio capability and integrated navigation for everyday functionality and enjoyment.